Delegates entering Canada to attend conventions and meetings will be
readily assisted by Canada Customs officers. Canada customs has taken
steps to simplify customs and excise requirements and ease border crossing
formalities. The following procedures and general information apply
specifically to U.S. organizations. Information for other countries
is available from Canada Customs.

The key factor in a smooth operation is advance notice. If you plan
to hold your next meeting in Canada then contact the regional conventions
coordinator at Canada customs, in writing, at least three months in
advance of the event.

If your plans include the importation of convention related materials
or equipment, Canada Customs can authorize on-site customs service to
facilitate the movement of all display and demonstration goods. This
service, commonly referred to as “portal to portal” privileges is offered
free of charge during regular business hours. If you are interested
you may request this service in your initial letter to the conventions
coordinator. You may also choose to hire a customs broker to provide
the initial paper work at the first point of entry. Please
click here.

1. Identify your customs broker or the designated representative
from you organization who will be responsible for processing the necessary
documents through the local Canada Customs Office as the goods arrive.

2. A company or organization importing goods for their own use
can designate one of their own employees to present the customs paperwork.

3. Provide the following required information on your organization’s
letterhead to the attention of Canada Customs regional Conventions Coordinator:

(a) the full name of the organization, whether it is an incorporated
company, an incorporated association or an unincorporated association;

(b) the name of the “designated official”;

(c) a brief list of goods to be imported and exhibits, if applicable;

(d) the name of the hotel or convention centre where the meeting or
convention is scheduled to be held;

(e) the date of the meeting or convention;

(f) the number of persons who will attend;

(g) the estimated number of Canadian residents who will attend.

4. Canada customs will reply by letter, advising the procedures
that will apply to your event. Make sure you or your broker have a copy
of this letter when your goods are cleared. If you have any questions
or your plans change, contact Canada Customs and your customs broker
immediately.

Individuals travelling to Canada may import 40 oz. of liquor/wine or
288 oz. of beer. Gifts up to $60 in value (excluding alcohol, tobacco
products and advertising matter) are duty-free. Up to 200 cigarettes,
50 cigars, 400 grams (14 ounces) of loose tobacco and 400 tobacco sticks
may be brought in for personal use.